According to a recent report from Grand View Research, the US cannabis market is projected to be worth $40 billion dollars by 2030. This growth is only accelerated by the recent movements to decriminalize and legalize cannabis in many states.

It goes without saying, then, that the cannabis industry holds a lot of potential for those entering the workforce.

This “budding” (pun intended) industry presents countless opportunities for a successful career. But as cannabis becomes increasingly normalized, the number of people wanting to join this industry also increases. In a competitive market, you have to have something that makes you stand out. That’s why a degree in cannabis is becoming vital to a successful career in the industry.

A lot of people are deterred from pursuing higher education because of the cost of moving and living in or around your academic institution of choice. But thanks to the pandemic making remote education opportunities more common, that doesn’t have to be a concern anymore.

If you’re thinking about pursuing higher education in cannabis, consider one of these three cannabis colleges offering online degrees in cannabis-related fields.

Oaksterdam University 

Oaksterdam University was founded in 2008 as the “first cannabis college” in the nation. This California-based school prides itself in its robust curriculum. Their coursework is designed around growing and producing cannabis.

Oaksterdam offers both an in-person and online degree programs. As the first of its kind, Oaksterdam University paved the way for other cannabis education programs across the country.

Oaksterdam has been established for over 15 years and has developed many certificate courses at an affordable rate. Many of its programs are offered through either a “self-guided” or “live” instruction method. Oaksterdam University offers the following certificate courses:

• Horticulture
• Business
• Extracts and Manufacturing
• Budtending

All programs, except Extracts and Manufacturing, are also available with a live component. Extracts and Manufacturing is only offered as a self-paced program for approximately $980.

For the Horticulture and Business Certificates, self-guided programs are priced at approximately $980. Live instruction is offered at $1,995.

The most inexpensive of the programs is Budtending. You can complete the Budtending program at your own pace for $486 or $695 with live instruction.

Oaksterdam even offers single-course electives. These courses cost around $150 and are designed for those who are simply looking to learn more about the cannabis industry, without pursuing a certificate.

Clover Leaf University

Clover Leaf University is approved as an academic institution by the state of Colorado. This company has Colorado’s oldest certificate and degree programs in cannabis education. Clover Leaf’s curriculum specializes in phytotechnology and cutting-edge cannabis innovations.

Clover Leaf University is a staple of Colorado’s cannabis research and education. The school offers a variety of workshops, training, and courses regarding cannabis growth.

The curriculum covers bud tending, dispensary management, cannabis cultivation, and industrial hemp cultivation.  Clover Leaf offers online educational opportunities for its students, but live classes are also available.

Beal University 

Beal University is a private college in Bangor, Maine. Beal University is eager to make its mark in the field of cannabis education.

Beal University recently launched several online cannabis degrees for people eager to learn more about the cannabis industry. The school offers:

• Associate degree in Cannabis Business Administration
• Associate degree in Cannabis Laboratory Science
• Bachelor’s degree in Medicinal Plant Sciences

Launched in May of 2022, Beal’s cannabis program is one of the newest in the country. The University is eager to ramp up its cannabis educational programs as it rolls out new courses.

In an increasingly crowded cannabis market, these online degree programs can help you stand out. And the best part? You don’t have to leave your home to get one.

So, what are you waiting for?